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6 things Obama must do at the Democratic National Convention

Many American voters will view the 2012 election as a referendum on the Obama presidency, so party leaders need to be ready with their defense. Here are six things Democrats and Obama can do at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C. this week if they want to secure victory over Mitt Romney and the GOP in November.

4. Remind voters why they like Obama

More than 8 of 10 respondents in a June Gallup poll said the president is likable. When asked what they most like about Obama, respondents praised his character and values and his care for people. Fewer voters warm to Mitt Romney, who lags behind on most tests of candidate characteristics. Since most Americans feel a connection with Obama, party leaders should use the convention as an opportunity to highlight his qualities that have worked so well in the past.

Personally popular candidates win elections. In every presidential contest since Gallup introduced the measure in 1992, the candidate with the highest favorability rating has won the presidency.

Obama has been topping Mr. Romney in every poll so far, but the gap is narrowing fast. In a CNN/ORC poll last week, Obama’s favorable rating with likely voters was 52 percent, only two statistically-insignificant points higher than Romney’s.

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Mark Sappenfield
Editor

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